ENVIRONMENT

Authorities order evacuations as Wahiawa Dam at risk

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Honolulu: Emergency officials issued evacuation orders Friday for communities downstream of the 120-year-old Wahiawa Dam after heavy rains caused severe flooding on Oahu, prompting sirens and alerts as authorities warned the dam was at risk of imminent failure and advised residents to leave immediately. Officials reported more than 230 rescues and evacuation orders affecting about 5,500 people Friday morning; Governor Josh Green activated the Hawaii National Guard and sought federal assistance, while crews continued air and water searches and warned more rain is expected this weekend, complicating assessments and recovery efforts.

Prepared by Olivia Bennett and reviewed by editorial team.

Timeline of Events

A winter storm the previous week saturated Oahu soils, increasing runoff risk.
Less than 24 hours before Friday, water at Wahiawa Dam rose from 79 to 84 feet.
Early Friday morning officials sounded sirens and issued 'LEAVE NOW' evacuation orders for Waialua and Haleiwa.
Between 8:22–8:34 a.m. HST the NWS and HNL alerts warned of imminent dam/levee failure and flash flooding.
Governor activated the Hawaii National Guard; authorities reported 230+ rescues and about 5,500 people under evacuation orders.

Why This Matters to You

The Wahiawa Dam situation is a wake-up call for all homeowners. It's a stark reminder of the importance of being prepared for natural disasters. Check your home insurance policy today. Does it cover flood damage? And remember, always heed evacuation orders promptly.

The Bottom Line

The Wahiawa Dam crisis is ongoing, with more rain expected. The situation is fluid and could worsen. Stay informed, follow local advisories, and prioritize safety. Worth forwarding if you know someone in a flood-prone area.